De Caribbean Regatta by the Manhattan Sailing Club

The sailing lifestyle, known and loved by so many cruising sailors, knows no national boundaries. What such sailors enjoy and talk about in the Med is pretty much the same as in Langkawi, Florida or Sydney. Here we share with you the particular fun and skill building of the Manhattan Sailing Club members who joined the recent 'De Caribbean Regatta'.

This winter, from January 28 through February 4, 140 club members and sailing school alumni travelled down to the British Virgin Islands (BVIs) for one week of sailing vacation. 18 boats were listed for the regatta and we were joined by 'Generosity' and 'Stagger Lee' bringing our total flotilla to 20.

This year, the fleet went counter-clockwise through the BVIs. From the Moorings base in Road Town, sailors headed out on Sunday morning. Some stopped by the Baths in Virgin Gorda during the afternoon. For the evening, the fleet gathered at Trellis Bay where frozen drinks were available at the Loose Mongoose and after night revelry was at the Last Resort.

On Monday morning, the 'Lucky Dog Race' was held from Marina Cay up through one of the three main Dogs. Congratulations to 'Team Marvelous' for winning. Then our flotilla continued to North Sound and the beautiful Bitter End Yacht Club. The Laser dinghy races were held that afternoon in very strong winds (i.e. everyone in the race capsized at least once!) and overall winner was 'Team Flagship.' 'Team Harmonic Seas' hosted the first boat party of the regatta.

Tuesday dawned as a perfect BVI day with winds of 21 knots, excellent for reaching over to Anegada. As the low coral island appeared on the horizon, excitement grew. 'Team Dobedobedo' hosted a boat party and some sailors were spotted late night at Potters on the beach.

Wednesday was our day of rest on Anegada. Many of the teams headed over to Cow Wreck Bay where the hurricane Evacuation Plan is: 1) Grab beer 2) Run like hell. This beach is one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean plus there is a bar, chairs, white sand and endless beauty. This evening, the appetizer competition was held and won by 'Team Birthday Boat.' The Silver Jubilee Regatta Dinner, featuring BBQ lobster and chicken, was then held at Neptune's Treasure followed by more dancing at Potters.

The winds slowed a bit on Thursday but the day was spectacular with incredible sunshine. 'Team Oh Yeah' won The Great Race from Anegada to White Bay on Jost Van Dyke. 'Team Otter' hosted the boat party and many sailors gathered that evening at world famous Foxy's.

The regatta picture was photographed on Friday morning on the beach at Jost Van Dyke. Then boats sailed over to Norman island for snorkelling at the Indians and Caves. There was the dinghy race won by 'Team Oh Yeah.' They also hosted the surprise boat party that evening. Late night, Willie T's lived up to its famous reputation and 70 out of our 140 sailors earned their 'Royal Order of De Caribbean Regatta' medals. That says it all.

About the Manhattan Sailing Club:
Manhattan Sailing Club, founded in 1987, is a group of active and enthusiastic sailors who sail in New York Harbor and claim their inspiration is from the skyline of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. With 30 club-owned boats and more than 700 members, they are helping to lead the sailing renaissance of New York Harbour, and their yachts can often been seen gracing the waters of the once almost purely commercial port.

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